The Castle Climbing Centre - Comp Squadhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/comp-squad-blog
Started in 2009, our Comp Squad has focused on developing the best young climbers at The Castle Climbing through a comprehensive training and competition programme. The Castle Squad is proud to be sponsored by Prana, Metolius and Evolv.
enTop Training Tips from Jo Neamehttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jo-Neame-Training-Tips
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/IMG_2891.jpg?itok=iIxWfbOi"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/IMG_2891.jpg?itok=iIxWfbOi" width="480" height="436" alt="Jo Neame" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><div>
<h5>Photo: Alex Messenger</h5>
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<div><span style="font-size: 15.21px;">18 year old GB team member Jo is determined to leave her mark on the UK climbing scene. Well versed in competition climbing, Jo's giving us some top training tips for those of you pushed for time!</span></div>
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<hr /><p>Now the competition season is finally over, it’s time to take a moment to breath, de-stress and of course...restart the training process to build a good base over winter so that I can come back stronger next season! As a competition climber and student currently studying for A-levels, I often find myself organising time I simply don’t have. Busy as I am, I know many people share my situation or something similar, but there are definite ways of getting more out of the time you do have. Here are my five favourite possessions for fitting in training when it would otherwise be impossible:</p>
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<ul><li><strong>Training plan:</strong> the hardest to purchase/make but definitely the most important! Whether you’re paying for a professional coach or creating your own, make sure you have a long-term goal in mind so that you are motivated to follow the plan and keep it varied. The best way to make the most of your time is to know beforehand what you intend to complete each session – if you don’t manage to follow this exactly, don’t worry, as a plan can have some flexibility and it is the long-term commitment that has an effect. However, if you enter the centre with an idea of how you will share your time, you will almost certainly get more done, and if you can’t go climbing, you’ll have a good idea of the type of training you can substitute in to keep progressing. </li>
</ul><p> </p>
<ul><li><strong>Suspension trainer:</strong> most opt for the TRX but there are other cheaper brands. These are excellent for taking on holiday, on a run in the park or if you simply can’t get to the wall and want to train at home. With just a tree branch or a door frame, you can do a full body work out which is varied and flexible to suit different time frames, abilities and goals.</li>
</ul><p> </p>
<ul><li><strong>Fingerboard:</strong> I wouldn’t recommend using these unless you have been climbing for a while as it is very easy to get injured. However, they are a very useful tool for improving finger strength as well as upper-body and core strength depending on your use. You can get small portable ones which are ideal for taking on trips/holidays, but also larger ones to screw into your door frame when you want to train at home.</li>
</ul><p> </p>
<ul><li><strong>Ankle weights</strong>: again, I would be careful using these and don’t go too heavy if you haven’t used them before! Even small weights (I normally use just 1kg on each leg) can make training much harder, allowing you to better control the training resistance if you only have access to limited facilities. For example, they are perfect for increasing the difficulty of endurance training when the facilities available aren’t getting you pumped. They can also be taken on holiday to add resistance to core workouts and finger-boarding sessions.</li>
</ul><p> </p>
<ul><li><strong>Thera-bands:</strong> you can get these in a variety of thicknesses and lengths so I would advise having a collection. These are perfect for lower intensity training or correcting joint movement patterns which can help prevent injury. They can also be used to help rehab injuries, provided they’re used correctly and you do so according to the right advice! I always find them useful in a warm-up to get the shoulders firing but they can be used for a workout by themselves or to aid other exercises on the bar. Again, very portable and can be used anywhere. </li>
</ul><hr /><p>If you want to follow more of Jo's exploits, you can find her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JoNeameClimbing/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jo_robyn/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/training-and-skills-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Training and Skills</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div></div></div>Wed, 01 Nov 2017 13:09:09 +0000Amy Yates718 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jo-Neame-Training-Tips#commentsJo's Blog - Junior British Bouldering Championshipshttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jo-Junior-British-Bouldering-Championship
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Jo%20at%20EYC%20Switz.jpg?itok=a1gUSiH4"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Jo%20at%20EYC%20Switz.jpg?itok=a1gUSiH4" width="320" height="480" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><h3> </h3>
<h3>Jo is a 17 year old GB team member, determined to leave her mark on the UK climbing scene. Well versed in competition climbing, each month Jo will be sharing her experiences with us.</h3>
<hr /><p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Jo.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 279px;" /></p>
<h5>Photo: Ed Wong</h5>
<p>The Junior British Bouldering Championships is an important event on my calendar, an event which requires thorough preparation in the form of a training plan which allows me to peak for the right time. With dynamic climbing being my weakest style, I had trained this the most, but I was still anxious for these types of problems as I entered the stuffy, sweltering centre. Having scoped out the eight qualifying blocks for which I would have two hours to complete, I began my warm up, knowing that it was going to be a tough round. </p>
<p>With half an hour to go until the time was up, I had only got one bonus hold and no tops and was on the point of tears. Months of training had led up to these two hours and when the time had come, I hadn’t been able to show anything for it. Frustrated, I took some time out and got on to the block I felt I had the best chance of completing. Matching the last hold of that climb was my saviour. </p>
<p>With a fresh slate to work from in finals, I felt calmer as I knew I would likely improve my position, or at least stay the same. Three blocks in and I hadn’t topped any, but this time I knew others were in a similar position and that a podium place was still within reach if I topped the last block. Determined to put my training to the test, I fought hard and walked away with a top second go. </p>
<p>I was pleased to achieve second place in this event as it taught me a key lesson: the competition isn’t over until it’s over.</p>
<hr /><p>If you want to follow more of Jo's exploits, you can find her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JoNeameClimbing/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jo_robyn/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </p>
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</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/training-and-skills-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Training and Skills</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/competitions-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Competitions</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div></div></div>Tue, 01 Aug 2017 10:39:08 +0000Amy Yates683 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jo-Junior-British-Bouldering-Championship#commentsCastle Seniorshttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/castle-seniors
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>A climbing club for 15 to 17 year olds. The aim of the Castle Seniors Club is to help young people to gain skills enabling them to become confident, independent climbers and to eventually use the Centre unsupervised.</p>
<p>No prior climbing experience is required.<br />
The sessions run for one and a half hours with strict ratio of six young people to one instructor.</p>
<p><u><em>Seniors Session Times</em></u><img alt="" src="/sites/all//images/Schools%26groups.jpg" style="width: 180px; height: 120px; float: right;" /><br />
Monday and Tuesday evenings from 7.10pm to 8.40pm</p>
<p>The benefits of climbing for young people include:<br />
• the development of teamwork,<br />
• the development self-confidence,<br />
• the development trust,<br />
• the development motivation and increased levels of fitness.</p>
<p><strong>Enrolment</strong></p>
<p>Enrolment into all Castle Climbing Clubs is per term. <u>The availability each term is very restricted due to priority booking being given to those who are already enrolled in the Castle Climbing Programme</u>. Any spaces still available after a given priority booking deadline will be advertised on our website with online booking on a first-come first-served basis. Due to the high demand, we regret that we do not offer a waiting list and all spaces are bookable online only.</p>
<p><strong>2017/18 Term Dates and Fees</strong></p>
<p><u>Monday Club</u>:<br /><strong><em>Autumn Term</em></strong>: 18th September - 11th December 2017 (no session on the 23rd October) - £240.00 per participant – <strong>fully booked</strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Spring Term</em></strong>: 8th January - 26th March 2018 (no session on the 12th February) - £220.00 per participant - <u>Booking will open on the 15th December at 2pm</u>.</p>
<p><strong><em>Summer Term</em></strong>: 16th April - 9th July 2018 (no session on the 28th May) - £240.00 per participant</p>
<p><u>Tuesday Club</u>:<br /><strong><em>Autumn Term</em></strong>: 19th September - 12th December (no session on the 24th October) - £240.00 per participant – <em><strong>limited availability</strong></em> <a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-Seniors-Tuesday-09-2017" target="_blank"><strong>BOOK HERE</strong></a></p>
<p><strong><em>Spring Term</em></strong>: 9th January - 27th March 2018 (no session on the 13th February) - £220.00 per participant - <u>Booking will open on the 15th December at 2pm</u>.</p>
<p><strong><em>Summer Term</em></strong>: 17th April - 10th July 2018 (no session on the 29th May) - £240.00 per participant</p>
<p>Fees are payable in advance.</p>
<p>Our usual <a href="/sites/default/files/files/Courses%20Terms%20and%20Conditions%20(Issue%201_2).pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions</a> apply.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-crosslinks field-type-list-integer field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Template used:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Classic template (3 cols)</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-left-colum field-type-text-with-summary field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Left column:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><h2>Contact: 020 8211 1068</h2>
<p><a href="mailto:Iwona@castle-climbing.co.uk">Iwona@castle-climbing.co.uk</a></p>
<hr /><h2><img alt="" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/all//images/Download%281%29.jpg" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />Download</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/files/Castle%20Climbing%20Club%20Terms%20and%20Conditions%20%28Issue%202%29.pdf" target="_blank"><font color="#0066cc">Castle Climbing Club Terms and Conditions</font></a></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-crosslinks-textarea field-type-text-long field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Crosslinks:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">u-18-assessments</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Display blog entries:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser-image-display field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Teaser image display:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">1</div></div></div>Mon, 29 Aug 2016 13:05:27 +0000Iwona Kulczynska-Evans598 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/castle-seniors#commentsYoung Guns - Final Scoreshttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/YGSC-Full-Scores
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Ad%20Banner%20v2.jpg?itok=LimzqTxH"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Ad%20Banner%20v2.jpg?itok=LimzqTxH" width="480" height="171" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Saturday 2nd July saw the Castle Climbing Centre host a bouldering comp for 9-14 year olds, including a professional finals format for the top 5 qualifiers from the 12-14 yr old category.</p>
<p>The event was well attended with all spaces sold out well before the day in question. Thank you to all the young guns who got involved and made it a great day!</p>
<p><em><strong>Below are the final scores from both the Finals and Qualifiers.</strong></em></p>
<h2>Female Final Scores</h2>
<p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Female%20Finals%20Score.jpg" style="width: 493px; height: 135px; margin-right: 3px; margin-left: 3px;" /></p>
<h2>Male Final Scores</h2>
<p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Male%20Finals%20Score.jpg" style="width: 497px; height: 136px;" /></p>
<h2>Young Guns Summer Comp - <strong><a href="/sites/default/files/files/YGSC-%20Scores.pdf" target="_blank">Full Scores</a></strong></h2>
<p><strong><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/YGSC%20Finals%203.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 120px; height: 160px; margin-right: 5px; margin-left: 5px;" /><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/YGSC%20Finals.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 120px; height: 160px; margin-right: 3px; margin-left: 3px;" /><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/YGSC%20Finals%202.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 120px; height: 160px; margin-right: 3px; margin-left: 3px;" /></strong></p>
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</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/competitions-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Competitions</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/events-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Events</a></div></div></div>Mon, 04 Jul 2016 11:15:32 +0000Claire Lee578 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/YGSC-Full-Scores#commentsYOUNG GUNS SUMMER COMP (YGSC)https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Young-Guns-Summer-Comp
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Young%20guns%20web%20version_0.jpg?itok=o8GCvCUg"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Young%20guns%20web%20version_0.jpg?itok=o8GCvCUg" width="480" height="339" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><h2>Coming soon!</h2>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;"><strong>The sickest, slickest and trickiest bouldering comp exclusively aimed at today’s Young Guns! A total of 30 fantastic boulder problems, in a fun competition format, for climbers aged 9-14.</strong></p>
<h2>Saturday 2nd July<br />
£15 per entry<br />
Registration opens on 16th May – Closes 20th June</h2>
<h3><strong>No adults need apply!</strong></h3>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;">The Castle in partnership with our own Comp Squad will prepare a unique bouldering event with world-class problems set for all levels of difficulty and reach. With fun challenges, there’ll be something for everyone to crush; it’s not just for the ‘pros’.</p>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;">Special prizes, courtesy of the Castle Shop will be given to the top places on each category.</p>
<p>To ensure everyone who wants to can take part, there will be two categories climbing at different times:</p>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;"><strong>09 – 11 years</strong> 09.30-12.00 <strong>FULLY BOOKED</strong><br /><strong>12 – 14 years </strong> 12.30-15.00 <strong>FULLY BOOKED</strong><br /><strong>12-14 years</strong> 16.00-17.00 <strong>FINAL</strong></p>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;"><strong>This competition will also serve as a selection event for the Castle Academy*.</strong><br /><em><strong>*</strong><a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-Academy">The Castle Academy</a> is a fundamental part of the Castle’s Youth Development Programme running structured climbing sessions where children focus on progression and the consolidation of their climbing skills. All Academy climbers are encouraged to participate in the youth competition circuit each year.</em><br /><strong>If you were thinking about applying to be part of the team, the YGSC will be your only opportunity this year.</strong></p>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;">For more information about the Academy application process, please write to the Head Coach (<a href="mailto:juan@castle-climbing.co.uk">juan@castle-climbing.co.uk</a>)</p>
<p style="line-height: 20.8px;">Places are limited, so be quick or be out!</p>
<ul style="line-height: 20.8px;"><li>Saturday 2nd July 2016</li>
<li>09:30-16:00</li>
<li>Limited spaces</li>
<li>£15 per entry</li>
<li>Registration opens on 16th May – Closes 20th June</li>
</ul></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/competitions-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Competitions</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/events-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Events</a></div></div></div>Tue, 17 May 2016 10:27:52 +0000Claire Lee564 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Young-Guns-Summer-Comp#commentsBMC Youth Climbing Series 2016 reporthttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-Squad-YCS-2016
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Castle_Climbing_Squad_10.jpg?itok=SH1oH439"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Castle_Climbing_Squad_10.jpg?itok=SH1oH439" width="480" height="320" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>The results of the <a href="https://www.thebmc.co.uk/bmc-youth-climbing-series">BMC Youth Climbing Series 2016</a> demonstrate how well our Castle Academy youth team are learning from each other and pushing themselves during training. Our athletes work together as a team during competitions, supporting each other and cheering loudly and enthusiastically for everyone taking part.</p>
<p>One athlete who continues to impress and catch the attention of the professionals is the Academy Co-Captain: <strong>Lux</strong> <em>'The Flash'</em> <strong>Losey</strong>. In the Paraclimbing ser<img alt="" longdesc="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Academy%20and%20squad.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 261px; height: 300px; margin-right: 2px; margin-left: 2px; float: right;" title="L to R: Lux; Edward; Alex; Juan (coach); Yasmin; Leo" />ies 2015/16, Lux has already a podium place to his name. In the Youth Climbing Series he achieved fifth place, which is only 28 ranking points behind his good mate Edward.</p>
<p><strong>Edward Varlow</strong> secured a solid third place in the last two rounds after qualifying 8th at the Westway. Call that a comeback! He's definitely one to watch in the future, because he has only been climbing for a couple of years (he learned how to lead climb last autumn). The difference in scores between Edward and Leo was a single point.</p>
<p><strong>Leo Laurer</strong> performed consistently throughout the series. Because of his grit and determination, Leo qualified for a place in the National Final at Ratho in third place overall, after only two years of climbing with the Castle Academy.</p>
<p>In the very competitive Girls B category, <strong>Hope Florin-Sefton</strong> demonstrated she is capable to learn quickly from her mistakes and remain focused throughout the competition. With her experience of competing limited to only two rounds, Hope improved her lead climbing to a level not far off the top five. This is Hope's first year with the Castle Academy.</p>
<p>Others who unfortunately missed out on the completions were <strong>Sean Wattsmoore</strong> and <strong>Lily Lees</strong>. Building on their experiences this season they will continue their learning pathway focusing on improving in every area.</p>
<p><strong>Kai Croswaithe</strong>, Co-Captain of the Academy, is a multi-talented young man. He regularly practises parkour, martial arts and climbing to a decent level. Each year, his performance on the YCS demonstrates an improvement on various aspects of his climbing and also on his strategy and tactics for competitions.</p>
<p><strong>Nell Harrison</strong> is gradually improving her technical skills, endurance and power to an elite level. Learning from every experience, Nell is aware of the importance of tactics and focus during competitions. Forgetting to clip one quickdraw on her first route of the last round (which she easily cruised to the top) set her back on the contention for the top scores.</p>
<p><strong>Alex O'Neill </strong>has been working consistently and relentlessly to improve his weaknesses. He earned a place in the National Final by improving his campaign strategy and applying all of his technical skills when the climbing got harder. After finding a solid climbing pal to train with, Alex has been pushing himself like never before. The results are clear.</p>
<p>For some time now, <strong>Yasmin Roberts</strong> has been a powerhouse when it comes to burly, technical and dynamic bouldering. Her results this year on the YCS speak of a much more rounded climber; one who can do routes as well as bouldering. She has consistently qualified for the National Final in the past few years, even when she was recovering from a broken ankle. This year she made it in second place for Girls A.</p>
<p>Not only he is an excellent Junior Coach for the Castle Academy, an ideal climbing buddy and a technical master, <strong>Stan Harris</strong> is an elite athlete. Recently selected for the GB Team, Stan didn't compete on the third round of the YCS. Instead, Stan demonstrated the routes for the competition with great skills and endless endurance. Despite not competing on the third round, he still qualified for the National Final. In case you were wondering, he is not going to compete in Edinburgh this year.</p>
<p><strong>Jo Neame</strong> and <strong>Jim Pope</strong> also did their fare share of demonstration of the routes for the first and second rounds of the YCS. As members of the GB Team, they give back to our community as Junior Coaches and also by taking part on a number of events to promote our sport. They are an inspiration to us all.</p>
<p><strong>Sam Roberts</strong> continues to be involved in our community as a Junior Coach (with a passion for fluid movement and bouldering power). He is an excellent belayer who made the younger climbers feel safe and confident on the first round of the YCS. His role for the challenging second round was to demonstrate the routes, which he did brilliantly despite his lack of training due to school duties. He is always up for an uplifting chat and share of beta.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Hope.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 113px; height: 150px; margin-right: 5px; margin-left: 5px;" title="Hope on her first YCS route" /><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Castle_Climbing_Squad_05.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 220px; height: 150px; margin-right: 2px; margin-left: 2px;" title="L to R: Jim; Nell; Kai" /><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Castle_Climbing_Squad_15(1).jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 100px; height: 150px; margin-right: 5px; margin-left: 5px;" title="Yasmin" /></p>
<p>In the near future, Sam, Jim, Stan and Jo will undergo the training for the Climbing Wall Award, a nationally recognised qualification. This is the first step to become a qualified climbing instructor. So, hopefully in the near future you'll get the chance to be coached by some of the best, most talented and hard working athletes in the country.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div></div></div>Tue, 05 Apr 2016 17:21:54 +0000Claire Lee545 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-Squad-YCS-2016#commentsMovement & Techniquehttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/movement-and-technique
<div class="field field-name-field-banner-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/Low%20Res%20Movement.jpg" width="780" height="520" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>The Movement Course is an introduction to climbing techniques and course is designed for climbers wishing to develop a solid skill base and will change the way you think about climbing.</p>
<p>If you are already climbing at V4/6c+ or above, you may want to consider 1:1 <a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/coaching" target="_blank">coaching</a>.</p>
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<p>Call 020 8211 1082<br /><a href="mailto:bookings@castle-climbing.co.uk"><font color="#0066cc">bookings@castle-climbing.co.uk</font></a></p>
<h2> <img alt="" src="/sites/all//images/Download(1).jpg" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /> Download</h2>
<p><a href="/sites/default/files/files/Courses%20Terms%20and%20Conditions%20(Issue%201_2).pdf"><font color="#0066cc">Courses Terms &amp; Conditions</font></a></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-crosslinks-textarea field-type-text-long field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Crosslinks:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">leading
coaching</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Display blog entries:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/training-and-skills-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Training and Skills</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser-image-display field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Teaser image display:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div>Thu, 18 Feb 2016 16:34:44 +0000Claire Lee535 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/movement-and-technique#commentsThe Castle Academyhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-Academy
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<p>Launched in 2014, the Castle Academy is a fundamental part of The Castle’s Youth Development Programme. The Castle Academy runs structured climbing sessions where children focus on progression and consolidation of their climbing skills in a fun, inspiring and supportive environment.</p>
<hr /><h3><strong>What's it all about?</strong></h3>
<p>The goal of the Castle Academy is to develop ‘climbers for life’ through participation on competitions and training, on a Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model. Academy members must have a solid interest in competition climbing, thrive to improve their climbing skills to an elite level and commitment to do several sessions of climbing per week (both with the coaches and on their own/ supervised by their parents or guardians). </p>
<p>The Castle Academy sessions are not about climbing dozens of routes at the highest grades of difficulty. On the contrary, we believe it is more important to develop athletes who are able to move well, on and off the wall. The central pillar in our training structure is the <a href="http://www.nicas.co.uk/">NICAS</a> scheme of progressive development of the safety skills required for climbing indoors. </p>
<p>All climbers are encouraged to join the youth competition circuit each year (BMC Youth Climbing Series and Blokfest), as well as to regularly climb with their parents and peers to further expand what they learn on the Academy sessions.</p>
<p>The aim of the Castle Academy is to empower children to make their own decisions about their pathway of progression, enjoying a lifetime of safe, injury-free climbing.</p>
<hr /><h3><strong>The Selection Process</strong></h3>
<p>The pathway to join the Academy is either through the <a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-climbing-club">Castle Climbing Club</a> or through the summer selection event (usually held around mid-July). The minimum requirement to join the Academy is to have completed <a href="http://www.nicas.co.uk/">NICAS</a> <strong>Level 1</strong> or to have equivalent climbing experience. Enthusiasm, commitment and a desire to improve are also important elements we expect from the Academy climbers. It is desirable to have participated in local, regional and/or national youth climbing competitions.</p>
<p>For the 2017-18 season, the selection process for the Castle Academy consists of a 3 stage process: </p>
<p>- Participation in the ‘Castle Academy Profiling’ sessions<br />
- <a href="/sites/default/files/files/Academy%20-%202017-18%20Questionnaire.doc">Questionnaire</a> - Application letter<br />
- <a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Young-Guns-2017">Young Guns Summer Competition 2017</a></p>
<p>During the selection process we are not only examining the people who can get to the top of most climbs. We are looking at the way each climber tactically approaches the set challenges, as well as their technical proficiency to solve the puzzle. Determination and the ability to adapt to each challenge are also desirable attributes the coaches will be looking for on the competitors. </p>
<p>To be selected for the Academy, climbers must demonstrate they can cope well with the physical and mental demands of a competition. Climbers must also show an emerging range of technical and tactical skills, specific to the sport. </p>
<p>If you can't attend the competition on Saturday 24th June, we cannot guarantee we will be able to fully consider your application for the 2017/18 team. </p>
<hr /><h3><strong>More Questions?</strong></h3>
<p>Please email <a href="mailto:Juan@castle-climbing.co.uk">Juan@castle-climbing.co.uk</a></p>
<p> </p>
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compsquad</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Display blog entries:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/training-and-skills-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Training and Skills</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser-image-display field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Teaser image display:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">1</div></div></div>Mon, 07 Dec 2015 14:17:47 +0000Claire Lee517 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Castle-Academy#commentsJim & Eugenie go to World Youth Championships!https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/world-youth-championships
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</script><p>Fresh after his <a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jim-pope-wins-EYC">victory</a> in <a href="http://www.ukclimbing.com/news/item.php?id=69893" target="_blank">Mitterdorf</a> at the beginning of August Jim Pope came back to work alongside the setting team on the current Comp Wall set and to continue his training in preparation for the main competition on his calendar. This year Jim will be competing in all three specialities (bouldering, speed and lead) in the beautiful town of Arco, in the north of Italy. </p>
<p>Also from the Squad Eugenie Lee will be com<span style="line-height: 1.6;">peting for the first time in a World Championship, representing Great Britain in Female B bouldering. On Friday 28th August, Eugenie managed to qualify 16th for the semi-finals. </span></p>
<p>You can read more about the rest of the GB Team competing in Arco, following this link to <a href="http://www.ukclimbing.com/news/item.php?id=69932" target="_blank">UK Climbing</a></p>
<p>To see the results and check the schedule for the World Youth Championship, go to the <a href="https://www.ifsc-climbing.org/index.php/latest-news/item/671-ifsc-world-youth-championships-arco-2015-new-schedule" target="_blank">IFSC website</a></p>
<p>Best of luck to Jim and Eug<span style="line-height: 1.6;">e</span><span style="line-height: 1.6;">nie! CRUSH!</span></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Jim%20before%20the%20comp(1).jpg" style="margin: 20px 40px; width: 200px; height: 156px; line-height: 20.79px;" title="Jim &amp; GB team boys pre-flight training in the Loft" /></p>
<p>Jim with fellow GB team members pre flight training/testing in the loft (Photo Courtesy of Tricky of NHF)</p>
<p> </p>
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</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div></div></div>Wed, 02 Sep 2015 13:20:45 +0000Gordon Wright485 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/world-youth-championships#commentsEuropean Youth Cup Win for Jim Pope!https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jim-pope-wins-EYC
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</script><h3><strong>European Youth Cup Win for Castle Comp Squad Captain...</strong></h3>
<p>For those that have not heard, Jim Pope – Castle regular and Comp Squad Captain – has just achieved another personal best by winning his first <strong>European Youth Cup</strong>! The success came on the weekend of the 8th/9th August at Mitterdorf, Austria and follows a great run of form which has seen Jim make incredibly quick repeats of a number of difficult routes around the UK:<br /><strong>Helvetia</strong> (8b+/c)<br /><strong>The Bulge</strong> (8a)<br /><strong>Urgent Action</strong> (8a+)<br /><strong>Dead Calm</strong> (8a) - flash<br /><strong>The Ashes</strong> (7c+) - onsight </p>
<p>What makes Jim’s comp result more impressive is the fact that the Mitterdorf wall is open to the elements and the conditions were far from perfect for comp climbing, with temperatures hovering near 40 degrees Celsius. After difficult qualifiers, Jim found himself setting up for the finals in 10th place. The steep and powerful finals route proved tricky to read, but Jim performed superbly and watched on with increasing excitement as his fellow competitors failed to reach his high point. </p>
<p>Here is Jim’s own account of the event and video footage of his finals route:</p>
<p>“Mitterdorf was the last EYC of the season and I had been training harder than ever to try and get my best result. When the team arrived in Vienna we were surprised by the temperatures which were up in the high 30's. Luckily we stayed in a great hotel with a pool to cool off in! The team had a day-and-a-half relaxing around the hotel and getting used to the heat before the competition started on Saturday.</p>
<p>On the day of the qualifiers everyone was up early for breakfast before heading over to the wall. The outdoor comp wall was tall and steep, peppered with volumes and hard routes. I looked at which routes were mine and discussed beta with my fellow team mates before heading over to warm up as I was climbing early. My first qualifier was a technical slabby route with no room for error on any move. I managed to get a few clips from the top, putting me in 10th place. The second qualifier was a steeper line with much more basic, powerful moves. I got to a similar height on this route and scraped my way into the finals in 10th place!</p>
<p>The team went back to the hotel, happy to have four finalists who headed to bed for an early start in the morning.</p>
<p>On Sunday morning the four finalists made it to the wall for 7:30am to get into isolation. As I was climbing first (after observation at 9.00am) I started warming up straight away. My warm up consisted of traversing to activate the forearms and then a few powerful boulder problems to get my arms firing properly. We went out for our 6 minutes to view the route and I went through the moves with team mate Aidan Roberts who also made the final in my category. The route climbed through the steepest part of the wall using lots of volumes and different angle changes. From the floor it was quite confusing what the beta might be, but I figured out a sequence and decided to stick with it.</p>
<p>It was time to climb and with the nod from the judge I set off. Because I qualified in 10th, whatever position I ended in would be a bonus, so I felt relaxed and just enjoyed the climbing. After climbing through a tricky bottom section I reached a good rest then pushed on through the steep bulges up to the head wall where I fell off a powerful move 9 holds from the top.<br />
I was lowered down really happy with how I'd climbed, now all I had to do was see how everyone else got on!</p>
<p>To my surprise the next 4 climbers fell off way beneath my high point and I was already guaranteed my best international competition result, which I was really pleased about. It was very tense when Jakub Konecny the Czech climber reached the same hold as me but didn't move on from it for the plus point. The next 4 climbers all fell lower in the middle crux section. <em>I had won!</em></p>
<p><img alt="" id="Photo: Nick Pope" src="/sites/default/files/images/Jim%20wins%20EYC.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 168px; height: 120px; margin-right: 5px; margin-left: 5px; float: left;" title="Photo: Nick Pope" />It was a strange feeling and it didn't sink in that I had won until coming back to work at the Castle on Monday morning (Jim was helping strip the Wells for re-setting) and seeing all the people that have supported me get to where I have over the years I have climbed there. It was great to see that all of my training and hard work has paid-off and I'm looking forward to seeing how it goes at the World Youth Championships in a few weeks time in Arco, Italy.</p>
<p><strong>Thanks to the whole Castle community for helping and supporting me along the way!</strong><br /><strong>Special thanks to the Castle Comp Squad coaches Ben, Juan, Jamie, Gordon and Tricky.”</strong></p>
<p>Watch Jim climbing the finals route <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2XmK4ZcyWw" target="_blank">here</a></p>
<p>We’re over the moon about Jim’s win and we wish him all the best for the World Youth Championships in late August/early September!</p>
<p>Jim is supported by The Castle Climbing Centre and sponsored by Lyon Equipment, Marmot, Climbskin, GLL and Rock City Climbing Wall</p>
<hr /><p><strong>Other Castle Comp Squad News....</strong><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/images/Stan%20DWS.jpg" style="border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; width: 100px; height: 150px; margin-right: 10px; margin-left: 10px; float: right;" title="Stan on Freeborn Man E4 6a" /></p>
<p>Of course, Jim is not the only squad member that’s been actively training over the summer and special congratulations also go out to:</p>
<p><strong>Eugenie Lee</strong> who has been competing for the GB Youth Team in the European Youth Bouldering Championships<br /><strong>Stan Harris</strong> who recently bagged his first 8a route Raindogs at Malham and his first Deep Water Solo (DWS) Freeborn Man, E4 6a (Fisherman’s Ledge).</p>
<p>Jim, Stan and Eugenie are all trained by the Castle coaches. If you're looking to take your own climbing to the next level, we provide <a href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/one-to-one-tuition" target="_blank">coaching products</a> to suit all abilities.</p>
<div class="fb-like" data-action="like" data-href="https://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jim-pope-wins-EYC" data-layout="standard" data-share="true" data-show-faces="false"> </div>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-category field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Category:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/comp-squad-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Comp Squad</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news-blog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">News</a></div></div></div>Wed, 19 Aug 2015 14:19:57 +0000Claire Lee462 at https://www.castle-climbing.co.ukhttps://www.castle-climbing.co.uk/Jim-pope-wins-EYC#comments